The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that over 500 Nigerian nationals have formally enlisted with the Nigerian mission in Lebanon for an organised repatriation back to Nigeria.
In a statement from Abuja on Sunday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, disclosed that around 2,000 Nigerians currently reside in Lebanon. However, despite efforts by the mission to encourage their return, a majority have declined to leave.
Ambassador Abu-Obe further clarified that the Nigerian government has initiated evacuation procedures in response to the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which presents increasing risks for Nigerians in the region.
““President Bola Tinubu’s administration prioritises the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens, and emergency protocols have been activated to ensure their swift and safe evacuation,” Abu-Obe stated.
He stressed that the ministry is working in close collaboration with other governmental bodies, including the Presidency, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), to streamline and coordinate the evacuation operations.
“The ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies, including the Presidency, National Emergency Management Agency, and Nigerian Immigration Service, to coordinate the evacuation exercise.
“The Nigerian Embassy in Beirut has issued advisories urging citizens to stay indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions,” he said.
Ambassador Abu-Obe urged Nigerians who have yet to register to contact the embassy via the provided email (info@mfa.gov.ng).
He also praised the Nigerian community in Lebanon for their cooperation and assured that the government would continue to closely monitor the evolving situation to provide necessary support.